https://www.citylab.com/solutions/2016/08/new-york-city-mta-flood-resiliency/49630
Moving to New York City from Melbourne, Australia was a huge leap; yet the most notable change has to be the weather. Although in Melbourne i’d experience the odd down pour which may overflow drains or flood up to door fronts, I had never seen flooding like that New York experienced during Hurricane Sandy. What was hugely concerning to me was how the MTA dealt with floods, as even with heavy rain, entrances to the MTA formed deep puddles making it difficult for people to move in and out of the tunnel. Upon analyzing the MTA entrance and tunnels surroundings, it was interesting to note not only how small the inside drain systems are, but also how decrepit they’ve become. Clogged with assorted trash and grime build up, it became increasingly apparent that something needs to change not only in the context of a flood; but even more so for the average down pour. This article talked about preventative flood damage measures by using new technology to clog tunnels and fence off water from pouring down MTA entrances; yet this hearkening comment “climate change will bring ever more severe and frequent storms” make me feel like some of these measures aren’t built to last. Like the L train renovation project; I feel as if the MTA should look into fixing some of the established infrastructure that exists; starting with the drain system. Because its great to have preventative measures for a disastrous flood; but it isn’t functional if people struggle to use the MTA when heavy rain puddle and eventually entrances.